Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Who can join a work group?

A. Any ACPS employee may join a work group. Exceptions to membership (for example, nominated PTA members) may be granted on a case-by-case basis by the superintendent and project director.

Q2. Have decisions already been made on compensation and benefits matters?

A. Yes and no. Some decisions are needed and being made as part of the annual budget process currently underway. However, we will integrate and leverage our work group's recommendations into current budget discussions to enhance the process.

Q3. How often will groups meet?

A. Groups will meet once a month. Exact dates and locations are to be determined.

Q4. When is the first meeting?

A. The first meeting will be an orientation/introductory session with the superintendent in mid to late January 2011. Thereafter, groups will meet on a monthly basis.

Q5. How much time does it take?

A. Groups should expect to meet for about an hour per month in the school year. The project director will work with the group members to keep these sessions focused and on time. This time may also be used to prepare or review reports. Groups may elect to visit other schools, think-tanks or have selected members attend a local conference.

Q6. What is the research required for the project?

A. The project director and/or consultants will provide short and/or summary information sources (articles, charts, reports) for the group's understanding. Additionally, consultants and ACPS staff experts will make presentations to enhance our members knowledge. We also hope to attract guest speakers from local associations, think-tanks and the business community.

Q7. Are surveys required?

A. It is expected that members converse and gather information from friends and colleagues. A group may elect to use a formal survey to gather information. If so, the survey must be approved through the Department of Accountablity. Of course, surveys already completed may be re-studied for use in this project.

Q8. Who drafts the reports?

A. The full committee or workgroup will work with the project director to draft the report. The project director will provide an easy-to-fill-in format to follow. All reports must be approved by the committee for release.